### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **zûwr**, represented by `{{H2115}}`, is a primitive root meaning **to press together, tighten; close, rush, thrust together**. It appears **4 times** across **3 unique verses** in the Bible. While rare, its usage vividly illustrates different applications of pressure, from the gentle closing of a wound to a forceful crushing action.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In its biblical occurrences, `{{H2115}}` is used to convey distinct types of pressing or closing. In Isaiah's lament over Judah's spiritual state, their wounds and sores "have not been **closed**" [[Isaiah 1:6]], using the word to signify the first step in a healing process that has been neglected. A more forceful application is seen in the story of Gideon, who "**thrust** the fleece **together**" to wring out the dew, demonstrating a direct physical manipulation [[Judges 6:38]]. Finally, in the book of Job, the word describes a destructive pressure, where an animal forgets that a foot might "**crush**" its eggs [[Job 39:15]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the contexts in which `{{H2115}}` is found:
* `{{H2280}}` **châbash** (to bind up): Used in the same list of neglected treatments in [[Isaiah 1:6]], it refers to the act of wrapping a wound firmly, which would follow the action of it being **closed** `{{H2115}}`.
* `{{H4680}}` **mâtsâh** (to squeeze out): This action is paired directly with `{{H2115}}` in [[Judges 6:38]], where Gideon first **thrusts** the fleece together and then **wringed** it, highlighting two connected actions of applying pressure to extract liquid.
* `{{H1758}}` **dûwsh** (to trample or thresh): In [[Job 39:15]], the fear is that a wild beast may **break** the eggs, which parallels the danger of a foot that may **crush** `{{H2115}}` them, emphasizing a theme of destruction under pressure.
### Theological Significance
The conceptual weight of `{{H2115}}` is found in its specific, tangible applications.
* **Symbol of Neglected Healing:** In [[Isaiah 1:6]], the failure to have wounds **closed** is a potent symbol of spiritual and national decay. It describes a state so corrupt, from the "sole of the foot even unto the head," that the most basic steps toward restoration have not been taken.
* **Tangible Evidence:** Gideon's act of **thrust**ing the fleece **together** [[Judges 6:38]] is a physical gesture to receive a sign from God. The resulting pressure produces a bowl of water, transforming a divine promise into a concrete, measurable reality.
* **Consequence of Forgetfulness:** [[Job 39:15]] uses the word to illustrate a principle of the natural world: inattention leads to destruction. The animal that **forgetteth** `{{H7911}}` that a foot can **crush** `{{H2115}}` its young represents the fragility of life and the severe consequences of neglect.
### Summary
In summary, `{{H2115}}` is a focused term for applying pressure, but its meaning shifts dramatically with context. It can represent the tender start of healing, the practical force needed to manipulate an object, or the destructive weight that ends life. Though used only a few times, **zûwr** provides powerful imagery for themes of spiritual sickness, divine confirmation, and the unforgiving laws of the natural world.
TRV